Changes to MOE Primary School Math Syllabus: Parents’ Guide (2025)

Changes to MOE Primary School Math Syllabus: Parents’ Guide (2025)

Are you updated on Singapore's Primary School Math Syllabus changes? MOE's syllabus revisions came into effect for Primary 4 students in 2024, and will be fully implemented for Primary 5 and 6 students in 2025 and 2026.

With topics being introduced earlier and shifted between levels, keeping in touch with the changes is an important step in supporting your child's academic journey.

Our guide offers a clear overview of the syllabus changes and practical advice to help your child navigate these adjustments successfully.

Key Syllabus Changes

The updated syllabus aims to create a more logical progression of mathematical concepts and will greatly impact how the subject is taught across primary grade levels.

Here is a quick overview of the syllabus changes:

Topics(s)

Before

After

Geometry (Turns and 8-point compass)

Primary 4

*Removed from the Primary School Syllabus

Time

Primary 2

Primary 1

Time (12h and 24h clock)

Primary 4

Primary 3

Average

Primary 5

Primary 6

Ratio

Primary 5

Primary 6

Pie Charts

Primary 6

Primary 4

Nets

Primary 6

Primary 4

Speed

Primary 6

Secondary 1

Removal of Topics

  • Turns and 8-Point Compass have been removed from the P4 syllabus.
  • Speed has been removed from the primary school syllabus and only introduced in Secondary 1.

Reassignment of Topics in Lower Primary

  • Time (12-Hour and 24-Hour Clock) has been shifted from P4 to P3.
  • Time has been shifted from P2 to P1.

Introduction of New Topics in Primary 4

  • Pie Charts and Nets have been moved from P6 to P4.

Reorganisation of Topics in Primary 5 and 6

  • Average and Ratio have been moved from P5 to P6.

Implications of the Syllabus Changes

These adjustments were implemented to provide a more gradual learning curve across different levels. Introducing foundational concepts earlier allows students to develop mathematical skills progressively, ensuring a smoother transition into secondary education.

The shift of Average and Ratio from P5 to P6 reduces workload, allowing more attention to topics like Percentages, Volumes, and Angles. Similarly, Primary 6 students benefit from a lighter curriculum with the removal of Speed and restructuring of other topics to P4. This also enables them to focus on preparing for the primary school leaving examinations (PSLE).

Encountering certain topics sooner translates to accelerated learning at lower primary levels. Time is now taught in P1 instead of P2, while the 12-hour and 24-hour clock formats are introduced in P3 rather than P4. This necessitates timely preparation to cultivate mathematical understanding from an early level.

Ultimately, the syllabus change requires both students and parents to adapt quickly to the new pace of learning. Providing the right support for your child helps them to maintain confidence and excel.

Navigating the New Math Syllabus: Practical Advice for Parents and Students

Adapting to the New Math Syllabus

Attuning to the numerous changes can be daunting. Here are some practical strategies to help you and your child adapt smoothly:

Tip 1: Stay Informed

  • Check MOE resources regularly for updates on syllabus changes and implementation timelines.
  • Understand which topics have shifted to help prepare your child accordingly.

Tip 2: Build Strong Foundations

  • Developing solid fundamental skills is pivotal to tackling the accelerated learning pace in lower primary.
  • Fostering a positive attitude and an interest in maths will make learning new concepts easier.

Tip 3: Open Communication

Proactivity will help your child build confidence and transition through the curriculum shift, ensuring they remain motivated to learn mathematics.

Prepare Your Child for the Primary Math Syllabus with Keynote Learning

Help Students Learn and Develop Deeper Understanding of the New Syllabus

Navigating the new syllabus requires proper guidance and support. At Keynote Learning, our students gain exclusive access to ThinkInn, allowing them to recap challenging math concepts anytime through in-house expert-curated videos and resources.

Our approach to education goes beyond traditional tutoring. We focus on developing critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and confidence that extend beyond the classroom.

Whether your child needs help with building fundamentals or exam revision, Keynote Learning provides a holistic tuition programme that makes learning mathematics enjoyable. Enrol in our Primary Math Tuition courses today!

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